How To Use CPT Code 0736T

CPT 0736T describes the procedure of colonic lavage, which involves the insertion of a rectal catheter and the use of gravity-fed water to induce defecation. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0736T.

1. What is CPT Code 0736T?

CPT 0736T is a code that represents the procedure of colonic lavage, specifically the use of gravity-fed water to induce defecation. During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a catheter into the patient’s rectum and washes out the colon using 35 or more liters of water. The purpose of colonic lavage is to relieve constipation or prepare a patient for a procedure that requires the evacuation of the colon.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0736T is: ‘Colonic lavage, 35 or more liters of water, gravity-fed, with induced defecation, including insertion of rectal catheter.’

3. Procedure

1. During a colonic lavage procedure, the patient sits on a specially designed system that allows them to recline while sitting on a basin.
2. A healthcare provider inserts a small, lubricated nozzle into the patient’s rectum.
3. Using gravity, a tube connected to the nozzle delivers 35 or more liters of water into the rectum.
4. The water loosens the stool and stimulates the patient to have a bowel movement.
5. Colonic lavage may be ordered to relieve constipation or to prepare the patient for a procedure that requires the evacuation of the colon.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 0736T is used when a patient undergoes colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter. This procedure is typically performed to relieve constipation or prepare the patient for a colon-evacuating procedure. It is important to note that the use of 35 or more liters of water is necessary for this code to be applicable.

5. When to use CPT code 0736T

CPT code 0736T should be used when a healthcare provider performs colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter using 35 or more liters of water. This code is appropriate for cases involving the relief of constipation or the preparation of a patient for a colon-evacuating procedure. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0736T, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s condition necessitating colonic lavage
• Details of the procedure, including the insertion of a rectal catheter and the use of gravity-fed water
• Quantity of water used (35 or more liters)
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Reason for performing the procedure (relief of constipation or preparation for a colon-evacuating procedure)
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0736T, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and provide the necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from payers regarding the use of this code. It is also important to note that CPT code 0736T should not be reported with other codes unless specified by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0736T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2022. As a relatively new code, there have been no updates or changes since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter using 40 liters of water to relieve severe constipation in a patient.
2. Colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter is performed using 35 liters of water to prepare a patient for a colonoscopy.
3. A healthcare provider performs colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter using 45 liters of water to prepare a patient for a surgical procedure that requires a clear colon.
4. Colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter is performed using 50 liters of water to relieve fecal impaction in a patient with chronic constipation.
5. A healthcare provider performs colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter using 35 liters of water to prepare a patient for a diagnostic imaging study of the colon.
6. Colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter is performed using 40 liters of water to relieve constipation in a patient with a history of bowel dysfunction.
7. A healthcare provider performs colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter using 35 liters of water to prepare a patient for a surgical procedure that requires a clean colon.
8. Colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter is performed using 45 liters of water to relieve severe constipation in a patient with a history of gastrointestinal issues.
9. A healthcare provider performs colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter using 50 liters of water to prepare a patient for a colonoscopy.
10. Colonic lavage with the insertion of a rectal catheter is performed using 35 liters of water to relieve fecal impaction in a patient with a history of chronic constipation.